Albion Eyeing Ferdinand?

Brighton are reportedly one of several teams having a look at Southend's versatile defender, Kane Ferdinand.

The 18 year old, a distant cousin of England captain, Rio Ferdinand normally plays as a centre back or as a right back. However, he made his debut for Southend in centre midfield, starring in a win over Oxford.

Ferdinand has been stalling on his first pro contract, meaning he will be available on a free transfer in the summer, a situation that has alerted a few teams across the country including Brighton, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest.

The youngster has been on Southend's books since the age of 13, but is thought to want to take his career up another level, despite only playing 6 first team games in his short career.

Ferdinand, who is currently only on a scholarship contract, has also appeared twice for The Republic of Ireland Under 18's side.